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Bradt Guide USA by Rail
Ref: BRA079
Now into its sixth edition, this perennial guide features over 500 destinations, including sightseeing and accommodation in 38 major cities, from which travellers can plan a personal itinerary. This compact guide introduces the romance of the rails route-by-route along with plenty of background details and railroad history. Steam railways and museums for enthusiasts cater for the enthusiast.
• Only book of its kind on the market
• Detailed, updated coverage of 25 long-distance rail journeys in the US and in Canada
• New information on USA visa and passport requirements
Book Reviews
"The best guidebook for the journey"
-- Sunday Telegraph
"An excellent publication. Essential reading."
-- Today's Railways
"An essential companion to anyone railtouring in North America"
-- The Railway Magazine
"An excellent springboard to the many fascinating places to visit in North America. If you are travelling by rail in the States as a holiday, then this book is well worth its price."
-- Rail Magazine
"If you travel in the US (or Canada) by train, you'll find all you need here."
--The Daily Telegraph
"From Boston to Washington, Chicago to Sacramento, New York to Miami and just about everywhere in between, the perfect train schedule is in this informative book. So pick it up and hop on board."
--Footloose
"Inside you'll find a literal treasure chest of ideas on rail travel all over this great country."
--John Clayton, USA Radio
About this Destination
North American trains have long fascinated the traveller. Attracted by the pace of life and an ever-changing view, more and more people are discovering the joys of taking to the rails to cross this vast continent in comfort and relative tranquillity.
Author's Note, by John Pitt
Ever since they came on the scene, American trains have had a strong hold on the popular imagination, inspiring countless stories, songs, scandals, films and legends. Their rugged charm sets them apart from more mundane means of transport and their ecological soundness is again in vogue. Trains pollute less, rarely suffer from weather delays and won't give you jet lag. You can choose your companions, read a book, have a snooze, sleep horizontally and enjoy most of the comforts of home. One reason for travelling by train is especially compelling: it's much more fun.
American passenger trains go to most big cities as well as to Disney World, Niagara Falls and the Grand Canyon. Pampered by helpful attendants, you can travel from coast to coast, explore the Rocky Mountains and ride directly alongside two oceans. You cross many rivers, lakes and deserts, seeing places which often can not be visited any other way.
Less expensive than flying, more comfortable than the bus, trains keep you relaxed and in touch with an ever-changing landscape. Amtrak coaches have generous reclining seats, air-conditioning, bright observation domes and snug bunks. This may not be the fastest way to travel but the civilised pace is perfect for sightseeing. If the scenery paIls you can always go for a stroll, enjoy a meal, make friends in the bar or watch a movie. At night a gentle rocking and the steady rhythm of the wheels are sure to lull you to sleep.
Not many people would mourn buses if they became obsolete, and few entertain fond thoughts about airports, but children still count freight cars and wave as the train goes by. Instead of leaving you exhausted and surly, trains create a sense of adventure and romance. No wonder many still find the plaintive sound of a locomotive horn at midnight a sign that it's time to move on. As the bell clangs and the conductor calls out 'All aboo-aard!' you too can discover why the railroad experience remains so beguiling.
John Pitt has travelled the length and breadth of the USA on several occasions in order to ensure the accuracy of this most comprehensive and inspiring guide to rail travel. He has had numerous articles published in the national press and specialist magazines.
£13.99
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